What Does Oedipus Tell His Daughters at the End of ‘Oedipus Rex’?
Oedipus Rex, a tragic play by Sophocles, portrays the story of Oedipus, a man who unknowingly kills his father and marries his mother. At the end of the play, Oedipus addresses his daughters, Ismene and Antigone, expressing his concerns for their future. This article will explore Oedipus’s words to his daughters and the implications of his actions on their lives.
Oedipus’s Concern for His Daughters’ Future
Oedipus acknowledges the consequences of his actions and the impact they will have on his daughters’ lives. He understands that his crimes, which include patricide and incestuous marriage, will make life difficult for his beloved children. He expresses genuine concern for their well-being and the challenges they might face as a result of his sinful deeds.
The Fear of a Miserable Life
Oedipus fears that his daughters may be subjected to a life filled with misery and suffering. He believes that their association with him, a man who committed such heinous acts, will bring them cruelty, isolation, poverty, and the possibility of remaining unmarried for the rest of their lives. Oedipus deeply regrets the consequences his actions will have on his daughters’ happiness.
Oedipus’s Request to Creon
Realizing that his exile is imminent, Oedipus turns to Creon, his brother-in-law, and implores him to take care of his daughters. In this heartfelt moment, Oedipus appeals to Creon’s sense of responsibility and asks him to promise that he will protect and provide for Ismene and Antigone. Oedipus entrusts his daughters’ well-being to Creon, hoping that they will find solace and security under his care.
Oedipus’s Sorrow for His Daughters’ Future
As Oedipus bids farewell to his daughters, he embraces them with tears in his eyes. He expresses deep sorrow for the challenges they will face in their lives. Oedipus believes that no man will be willing to marry the offspring of an incestuous union, further adding to his daughters’ potential hardships. His heart-wrenching display of emotion reflects his remorse for the consequences his actions have imposed upon them.
In conclusion, in the final moments of ‘Oedipus Rex,’ Oedipus addresses his daughters, conveying his concerns for their future. He acknowledges the difficulties they may encounter as a result of his actions and implores Creon to protect and care for them. Oedipus’s sorrow and regret are palpable as he bids farewell to his beloved daughters, knowing that they will face significant challenges due to his tragic fate.
Sources:
- “What does Oedipus tell his daughters at the end of ‘Oedipus Rex’? – Answers” (https://www.answers.com/performing-arts-ec/What_does_Oedipus_tell_his_daughters_at_the_end_of_%27Oedipus_Rex%27)
- “The Oedipus Plays Oedipus the King, lines 1311–1684 Summary & Analysis | SparkNotes” (https://www.sparknotes.com/drama/oedipus/section9/)
- “Oedipus Rex” translated by George Theodoridis (https://www.poetryintranslation.com/PITBR/Greek/Oedipus.php)
FAQs
What does Oedipus tell his daughters at the end of ‘Oedipus Rex’?
Oedipus expresses his concern for his daughters’ future and acknowledges the challenges they may face as a result of his actions. He asks Creon to take care of his daughters and expresses his sorrow for the difficulties they may encounter.
Why is Oedipus concerned about his daughters’ future?
Oedipus is concerned about his daughters’ future because his actions, including killing his father and marrying his mother, will make life difficult for them. He fears they may experience cruelty, isolation, poverty, and spinsterhood due to his criminal actions and immoral behavior.
What does Oedipus ask Creon to do for his daughters?
Oedipus asks Creon, his brother-in-law, to promise that he will look after his daughters after his exile. He entrusts their well-being to Creon, hoping that he will protect and provide for them.
Why does Oedipus weep for his daughters’ future?
Oedipus weeps for his daughters’ future because he believes that no man will want to marry the offspring of an incestuous marriage. He expresses his sorrow for the challenges they will face and the potential hardships they may encounter in their lives.
What are the implications of Oedipus’s actions on his daughters?
Oedipus’s actions, such as killing his father and marrying his mother, have significant implications for his daughters. They may face societal judgment, cruelty, isolation, poverty, and difficulties in finding suitable marriage partners due to their association with Oedipus’s tragic fate.
How does Oedipus show his concern for his daughters?
Oedipus shows his concern for his daughters by acknowledging the challenges they may face, asking Creon to take care of them, and expressing his deep sorrow and remorse for the hardships they may endure. He embraces them with tears in his eyes, displaying his genuine care and love for them.
What is the significance of Oedipus entrusting his daughters to Creon?
By entrusting his daughters to Creon, Oedipus seeks to ensure their well-being and protection. Creon is Oedipus’s brother-in-law and a trusted family member. Oedipus believes that under Creon’s care, his daughters will find the support and security they need to navigate the challenges resulting from Oedipus’s tragic actions.
How do Oedipus’s words to his daughters reflect his remorse?
Oedipus’s words to his daughters reflect his remorse through his emotional display of sorrow and tears. He acknowledges the consequences his actions will have on their lives and expresses deep regret for the difficulties they will face. His genuine concern and love for his daughters are evident in his heartfelt farewell to them.